What is the role of the spindle apparatus in cell division?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The spindle apparatus, composed of microtubules, plays a crucial role in cell division (mitosis and meiosis) by ensuring proper chromosome separation and distribution to opposite poles of the cell. This segregation is vital for creating two genetically identical daughter cells in mitosis or four haploid daughter cells in meiosis. Choice A is incorrect because the separation of sister chromatids is specifically carried out by kinetochore fibers within the spindle apparatus. Choice C is inaccurate as the formation of a new nuclear envelope occurs post chromosome segregation. Choice D is incorrect as DNA synthesis does not occur within the spindle apparatus; it takes place during the S phase of the cell cycle.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Nucleotide: Nucleotides are the building blocks of RNA. A nucleotide consists of a nitrogenous base (adenine, guanine, cytosine, or uracil in RNA), a sugar (ribose in RNA), and a phosphate group. A) Amino acid: Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, not RNA. C) Protein: Proteins are made up of amino acids, not nucleotides. D) Fatty acid: Fatty acids are components of lipids, not RNA.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Bases are substances that can accept protons or donate hydroxide ions in a chemical reaction. One common property of bases is that they turn red litmus paper blue. This is a classic test to distinguish between acids (which turn blue litmus paper red) and bases. Conductivity in aqueous solutions (Option A) is a property of both acids and bases, but not unique to bases alone. Sour taste (Option B) is a property commonly associated with acids, not bases. Reactivity with metals to produce hydrogen gas (Option C) is a property of acids, particularly strong acids, but not bases.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: An unsaturated solution is the term used for a solution that has a lower concentration of solute compared to another solution. In an unsaturated solution, more solute could still be dissolved. The other options are incorrect. A saturated solution (A) contains the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved and is in equilibrium with undissolved solute. A dilute solution (C) has a low concentration of solute, but it does not imply a comparison to another solution. A concentrated solution (D) has a high concentration of solute compared to the solvent, which is opposite to what is described in the question.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Friction is a force that opposes motion. When two surfaces are in contact, friction acts in the opposite direction to the motion or the potential motion between the two surfaces. It resists the relative motion of solid surfaces, fluid layers, and material elements sliding against each other. Friction hinders or prevents motion rather than promoting it. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they suggest that friction increases, accelerates, or creates motion, which is inaccurate. The correct definition of friction is that it opposes motion, making choice C the most appropriate option.